Do I Need A Licence To Remove Asbestos Cement Board In Sussex?

If you are planning any kind of construction works, especially those relating to asbestos removal, you need to make sure that you are operating within the guidelines and rules of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). One of the key aspects of this is understanding whether you need a licence to remove asbestos cement board, particularly when working in Sussex or any other part of South East England.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are an experienced asbestos removal company operating in and around Sussex. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of the licensing requirements around asbestos removal, and to ensure that you are operating compliantly and safely at all times. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about asbestos removal in Sussex, including when you need a licence, and what your legal obligations are.

The Legal Requirements Around Asbestos Removal

Before we discuss whether or not you need a licence to remove asbestos cement board, it is important to understand the legal requirements around asbestos removal in general. Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in construction in the UK up until the 1980s, due to its insulating and fire-resistant properties. However, since then, it has been identified as a major cause of serious lung diseases, and is now widely recognised as a dangerous material that needs to be removed carefully and safely.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, there are strict legal requirements around the removal of asbestos. All work with asbestos must be carried out in accordance with specific guidelines, and properties or sites that contain asbestos must be properly identified, and the necessary precautions taken to ensure the safety of removal workers and other personnel.

Do You Need A Licence to Remove Asbestos Cement Board?

So, do you need a licence to remove asbestos cement board in Sussex or elsewhere in the UK? The answer is: it depends. The key factor is whether the cement board is considered to be "non-licensable" or "non-friable".

Non-licensable asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are those that pose a lower risk of fibre release when damaged or disturbed. These materials can be removed without a licence, as long as the asbestos is properly identified, assessed and removed in accordance with the HSE guidelines.

Non-friable ACMs, such as asbestos cement board, are generally considered to be lower risk materials than friable ACMs, such as insulation. However, this does not mean that removing them is safe or straightforward. Non-friable ACMs can still release fibres if they are damaged, disturbed or broken during removal, and so all work with these materials needs to be approached with the utmost care and diligence.

Legal Obligations for Non-Licensed Asbestos Work

If you are planning to remove asbestos cement board or any other non-friable ACM, you must still comply with a number of legal obligations to ensure the safety of workers and others affected by the work. These include:

• Undertaking a risk assessment to identify any hazards posed by the asbestos-containing materials.
• Ensuring that any workers undertaking the removal work are competent, trained and equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Implementing appropriate control measures to prevent the fibres from being released into the air, such as using a low-pressure water mist to suppress dust.
• Correctly disposing of any materials contaminated with asbestos, in accordance with the HSE guidelines.

It is important to note that even non-licensed asbestos work must be notified to the HSE as "notifiable non-licensed work" (NNLW). This is work that involves asbestos-containing materials that are not licensable, but that still pose a potential risk to the health of workers and others. Typically, you need to notify the HSE at least 14 days prior to beginning any NNLW.

The Benefits of Using a Licensed Asbestos Removal Company in Sussex

While it is possible to carry out non-licensed asbestos removal works, it is often advisable to use a licensed asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, particularly if you are working with asbestos cement board. Choosing a licensed contractor ensures that you are working with a company that has the necessary skills, experience and equipment to undertake the work safely and legally.

Licensed asbestos removal companies are also subject to regular inspections and monitoring by the HSE, which helps to provide an extra level of assurance that they are operating safely and professionally. They are also required to hold appropriate insurance, including public liability insurance and employer's liability insurance.

Planning Time for Asbestos Removal Works

If you do need a licence to remove asbestos cement board or any other friable materials, you should allow plenty of time for planning and preparation. Some important steps to consider include:

• Carrying out a thorough asbestos survey to identify the location and type of asbestos-containing materials on the property.
• Applying for the necessary licences and permits from the HSE.
• Planning the removal work in advance to ensure that the most appropriate and safe methods are used.
• Ensuring that all workers involved in the removal work have the appropriate training, qualifications and PPE.

How Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex Can Help

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we understand that asbestos removal can be a daunting and complicated process, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the legal requirements and guidelines. We are here to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

As a fully licensed asbestos removal company, we have the skills, experience and equipment to safely remove all types of asbestos-containing materials from your property or site, including asbestos cement board. We can carry out the necessary surveys, risk assessments and planning to ensure that the work is carried out in accordance with all legal requirements, and we will provide you with clear and concise documentation of all works for your records.

If you are unsure whether you need a licence to remove asbestos cement board or any other materials, or if you are planning any kind of demolition or construction works involving asbestos, contact us today on 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. We are always happy to provide free advice, guidance and support.